Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Chear Squad!

I realized when writing my post about our possible change of plans that I never wrote about my experience cheering on my husband and friends running the half marathon!

Adam running down Main Street, U.S.A.

Disney calls it the ChEAR Squad. They set up tables at the expo to make signs (you can even buy different packages that include sweatshirts and more!) and open the parking lots, parks, and transportation to help people get in position to watch the runners.

I have to say - this is one of the best aspects of Disney races. Other races may have a few people here and there cheering you on, but having literally thousands... it makes such a huge difference!

My favorite experience of the ChEAR squad was walking down Main Street, U.S.A. at 5:30 in the morning - it was dark and empty - perfectly peaceful and serene.

One of the first runners I saw!

Even the Characters of Main Street wanted to come out and watch!

She just couldn't bare to see the half naked men run past!

Casey's Corner was open for breakfast - which they only do on very crowded days, or special events! I followed the lead of several members of the WDW Radio Running Team, including Lou himself, and ordered their breakfast dog.

Possibly the most disgusting, yet fantastic, meal I've ever had.. at least for breakfast. A breakfast sausage topped with egg, bacon, and cheese - served in a hot dog bun. And, it comes with a side of fries or tater tots (obviously I went for the tots!). Along with a Diet Coke (sensible, right?), I enjoyed breakfast while sitting on the sidewalk on Main Street!

After my husband and our friend passed by, my friend (and occasional guest blogger, Katie!) and I hopped back on the monorail and headed to EPCOT - to the finish line. I was lucky enough to see Adam cross mile 13 and I 'ran' to meet him at the finish line - he got his awesome medal and felt great with a personal record (20 minutes faster than his previous half marathon!).

If you happen to be at WDW (or DLR) the weekend of a race and wake up early, take advantage of the amazing events and cheer on the runners - you never know, you may be inspired to join in on the festivities in future races!

12 comments:

Wow Jenn! I never thought of the the crowds that would be there for you. My husband is running his first race here and it is called Run for Your Life...a Zombie run(yes I know not Disney-Like but we also love Zombies) So I am trying to talk him into doing a Disney race as I know the kids would LOVE seeing him in it. I just never thought of the aspect of him running through the parks. And for me to be able to enjoy Casey's while he runs...priceless. :0)

The Disney races are SO awesome - plus the kids have their own races to join in! Running thru Cinderella castle is an amazing experience that I can't wait to do again!! You know you want to join in ;-)

While I can't say that the running itself would appeal to me, I would gladly get up super early for a breakfast dog and a chance to walk down a mostly deserted Main Street. Congrats to your husband on a very impressive finish!